What is a significant consequence of soil erosion?

Soil erosion involves the wearing away of the top layer of soil, which is crucial for plant growth. The topsoil contains a rich concentration of nutrients, organic matter, and microorganisms that support healthy plant development. When soil erosion occurs, this essential layer is stripped away, leading to a loss of fertile land. As a result, agricultural productivity is significantly diminished, making it increasingly challenging to grow crops effectively.

The other options do not accurately reflect the impact of soil erosion. Increased agricultural yield, improved plant growth, and enhanced biodiversity are all positive outcomes that are unlikely to happen as a direct result of soil erosion. In fact, soil erosion tends to lead to adverse effects on the agricultural landscape and can harm the ecosystem’s balance. Hence, the correct understanding of soil erosion’s consequences highlights the importance of maintaining soil health for sustained agricultural practices and environmental stability.